An El-Classico Stalemate

 

The biggest game in the La Liga calendar this weekend ended in a stalemate but to call this a contest would have been an insult.

Despite once again failing to hit the target, I dare anyone to say that Betis were the weaker team or that they did not deserve to win…

 

Before I provide my impression and take on the game, allow me some time to share an interesting phenomena that some may find familiar. Even though this was easily the biggest game happening in Spain this weekend, the cable providers locally decided not to broadcast this game live – instead we got a choice of watching Real Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.

Now I am not blinkered by my own passion and know that these are the global names and clubs that attract the biggest global audience but just for one weekend, could they not have offered an acknowledgement of traditions and culture and instead show the Betis-Seville match? While these may not have the same global following, there is a lot of history and significance attached to this game even within Spain and it would have been nice for the broadcasters to be driven for once by their hearts instead of their wallets.

Since there was no live telecast, I resorted to logging onto websites that provide live action summaries (much like playing a Championship Manager game) in order to “follow” the action. And the funny thing was that while it was obviously a very different experience, it was no less enjoyable. I found myself jumping in anticipation each time a line or an “update” appeared… on the one hand, you want for them to come continuously cos each line update means action and a chance for good things to happen but on the other hand, each was also an opportunity for things to go wrong – instead of Betis, it could have been Seville taking the lead.

So you can imagine the conflict that was taking place in my heart as I wait impatiently for the next line to pop – its like watching a horror movie: you know what’s going to happen next but you are still scared when it happens or on tenderhooks while waiting for things to happen.

Wonder how many other overseas fans suffer from this same problem/obsession?

For the game itself, it was a testament to my optimism and faith in the team. In a game that they dominated for a good three-quarters, Betis bossed a Seville side that had many admirers coming into this game for their attacking enterprise. Ironically, a defence that was criticised as being the major weakpoint of the team held out easily – with Seville not having created a single chance until perhaps the last 15mins. To concede only one goal in three games is testament to their growing confidence.

A lot of that I believed have to do with the fact that Auerlio was back in the side, doing a great job of screening and protecting the back four. In fact, any neutral fan would not have been surprised had Betis won the game.

Once again, the post became Betis greatest nemisis with Sergio Garcia and Juanito hitting the woodwork. Garcia in particular is growing in statue with the team and he showed once again that he can easily lead the line with his enterprise and mobility. Betis fans may be worried at the team’s continuing woes in front of goal and the fact that they haven’t won a game since April.

But if I may be objective, the team is coming along and building a greater level of understanding. Each week sees a more cohesive side that translates into a better performance. People forget that with so many new players in the side, time must be given for them to grow and to gel. And even if it pains me to say so, this is not a weak Seville side that we just shut out. This is a side that was praised for its attacking play and had topped the La Liga not too long ago. 

Thus for all the critics and websites that are biased against us, I say “Up Yours” – we are Betis and we are glad that you don’t like us. Nothing would please us more than to stick our fingers up in your faces. I believe that once Edu returns to the team and slots in alongside Gonzalez and Garcia, we are going to see a team transformed.

Next up is Barcelona…and quite frankly I can’t wait. We have always had a good record against the Catalans and if Edu does return, it will make for a fascinating game. More importantly, I can be sure that this game will be telecast live and I need not wait in front of the laptop any longer.

Category: Real Betis Team News

Tags: Real Betis Team News

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